London, UK: The government is launching a review into CPC training following criticism that the financial burden is putting off returning and new drivers to the industry.
As part of the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, drivers currently need to undergo five days of periodic training every five years to ensure they remain fully qualified and up to date with road safety standards. However, some drivers are left to pay for the training themselves and are not paid whilst attending their training course.
The review will look at how the process can be updated to reduce the burden on drivers – both returning and new – and ensure it doesn’t act as a barrier to working in the sector.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “We’re listening to industry leaders who have told us about the issues HGV drivers face with CPC arrangements. We understand it’s vital for drivers to remain fully qualified – but we’re looking to ensure they can do so in the most efficient way possible whilst maintaining road safety standards. No driver should be out of pocket or out of work through no fault of their own.”
The government will also identify a number of lorry parks where short-term facilities such as temporary toilets, showers and catering can be delivered in the coming months.
The government also emphasised the expectation that councils consider new proposals for these “vital sites constructively” and has committed to review guidance that will assist this.
This follows the £32.5m recently committed in the Chancellor’s budget to provide better facilities for HGV drivers.
Elizabeth De Jong, director of policy at Logistics UK, said: “The measures will support our members in their efforts to attract and retain new HGV drivers to the sector. Inadequate driver facilities across the roads network have led to a negative impression of our industry, creating a barrier to entry to our sector and are an issue that Logistics UK has been campaigning on for many years; we are pleased that the government has listened to our concerns and will move forward with a rapid programme of improvements.
“Logistics UK and its members also welcome the review of Driver CPC, to ensure that continuous education for drivers is as effective as possible while upholding all necessary safety requirements.”
